China’s first ice-floating club opens in Xinjiang’s Altay

The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has unveiled China’s inaugural ice-floating club in Altay, creating a novel winter attraction that is rapidly capturing the attention of adventure seekers nationwide. Situated alongside the picturesque Aweitan Reservoir, this facility offers participants the unique opportunity to float effortlessly on frigid waters while encased in specialized insulated wetsuits.

Visitors to the pioneering establishment don vibrant red waterproof suits specifically engineered for both thermal protection and buoyancy before entering the chilling aquatic environment. The experience represents a significant advancement in China’s winter tourism offerings, providing domestic travelers with an activity previously only accessible through international travel.

Zhou Jie, a tourist from Jiangxi province, expressed enthusiasm about the convenience: ‘This innovative winter sport was once exclusively available abroad. Now we can enjoy this extraordinary experience right here in Altay.’

Operational safety remains the club’s fundamental priority according to management. All instructional staff maintain professional certification, while dedicated lifeguards and safety officers maintain constant vigilance during all sessions. Participants are required to wear the specially designed thermal flotation suits that provide both warmth and security in the cold water environment.

Cheng Hou, Director of the Polar Ice-Floating Tourism Studio in Altay, projected substantial visitor numbers with approximately 100 daily guests anticipated throughout the winter season, totaling an estimated 10,000 participants. In preparation for increasing demand, facility enhancements and coaching team expansions are already in progress to accommodate growing interest from across China.